Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Church To Host Community Event To Support Law Enforcement


Note: The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is sharing this news release on behalf of First Baptist Church Naples:

Back the badge.

That’s the message from First Baptist Church Naples as the congregation urges the community to get behind local law enforcement.

First Baptist will host a communitywide event of encouragement and support for Collier County law enforcement Saturday, Nov. 21, from 8 to 11 a.m. on the church campus, 3000 Orange Blossom Drive, North Naples.

The event, called “Bless the Blue/Back the Badge,” was designed as a salute to local law enforcement, taking into account the increased scrutiny of police nationwide regarding the use of force.

Senior Pastor Hayes Wicker said the attacks on police officers by rioters in Baltimore in April highlighted the need to support law enforcement.

“As I watched those scenes on television I suddenly became aware of the growing pandemic of hatred, resentment and violence toward police officers,” Pastor Wicker said. “Those who put their lives on the line need our daily encouragement.”

Event participants will gather at the southeast entrance to the church on Livingston Road. A collection of cards will be available to the public to write a note of appreciation for law enforcement. The cards will be collected and delivered to members of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Naples Police Department and Marco Island Police Department.

Large blue ribbons will be available for purchase to hang on a home, vehicle or other conspicuous place as a show of support. Yard signs, car magnets and wristbands will also be available for purchase.

Youngsters can jump around in the police car bounce house and check out the CCSO helicopter and DARE car. McGruff the Crime Dog will be on hand to dispense safety tips.

The event will also feature demonstrations by the CCSO K-9, SWAT, bomb squad and motorcade units.

Food and refreshments will also be available for any on-duty law enforcement officer in the area during the event.


For more information, please contact David George at 239-596-8600 x 274, or dgeorge@fbcn.org.